Trip Leader

The American Youth Foundation - Miniwanca is seeking candidates for the position of Four Trails Adventure Trip Leader. The Four Trails program takes the AYF philosophy on trail to inspire youth to develop their best selves, to lead balanced lives through wilderness adventure activities and to interact positively with the communities they visit. These activities include; hiking, camping, canoeing, and sea kayaking.

Our trips range in length from 6 to 21 days and are conducted throughout Michigan, the Northeastern United States and Ontario, Canada. Our Trip Leaders are responsible for the planning and execution of our trips while being a leader and a mentor to the campers enrolled in the trip.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 18 years of age, preferred 21 years or older

• One to two years of college or equivalent experience

• Previous experience in outdoor education, group facilitation or working with youth preferred

• Ability to live in camp and trail conditions with varied weather

• Display a strong positive work ethic

• Demonstrate a passion for youth development

• CPR, Lifeguard, and Wilderness First Responder qualifications (courses offered)

• Facilitation experiences in the outdoor industry a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities:

• Role model the AYF mission and values

• Plan, prepare and lead a specific trip

• Participate in in-camp activities when not out on trail

• Teach/instruct campers on the essential skills necessary for trip safety and enjoyment

• Participate actively in staff training

• Contribute positively to the entire camp community

• Protect the health and safety of campers by adhering to AYF policies and procedures

• Provide 24-hour supervision and mentoring to campers, while living and eating meals with a group, helping each camper to adjust to camp life and achieve his/her personal best

 All successful candidates are required to complete wilderness staff training on arrival (June 1, 2025), which includes AYF curriculum, leave no trace ethics, risk management and hard skills related to specific trips i.e. camp craft skills / paddling strokes.